Of the many advantages of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, one of them is the fact that many of our students earn college credit through the IB examination process.
The IB Examination Process in Brief
Associated with each IB course are a series of projects, oral exams and written exams that are marked and moderated by the IB organization. After a certain point in the course, students complete the projects and oral exams. The written exams are all administered at the end of the courses in May. Once completed, these examination materials are sent to IB examiners around the world for marking. The results are then compiled and a student is given a composite score on a scale of 1-7 for their work. On average, marks of 4 or higher are given college credit.
How are Scores Received by the College/University
Each college/university has a designated person (likely in the registrar office) who has access to an IB sponsored web site. After the scores are released to students during the first week of July, it takes a couple of weeks for some final processing and then the scores are sent to the colleges/universities. It is highly recommended that students contact their respective registrars in late August to first confirm that that scores were accessed, but to also learn how those scores were evaluated and hopefully recognized for credit.
Colleges and IB Recognition
While there are some commonalities regarding how IB scores are recognized for credit, there are also some variances between schools and their credit policies. Some upper tier colleges will require a base score of 5, maybe even 6-7 to earn credit. Some schools accept HL (Higher Level) marks only. Some schools will give credit for all IB subjects if a student participates in the full diploma program and earns a certain amount of collective points between all of their subjects. Some states have established credit award policies for all of their schools.
To learn more about credit policies at local colleges, see the links below:
Appeals Process and IB
In instances where credit was not given outright for IB scores, we have had numerous cases where students have appealed for credit. This is something students have done once they have received their scores and are at their college of choice working directly with the registrar of that school. This is not to say that an appeal is guarantee for credit; nevertheless, there is no harm in the attempt.
Minnesota State Colleges and IB
It is important to note that all Minnesota State Colleges fall under a credit policy that outlines the following:
· Higher Level examinations with a score of 4 or higher will receive a minimum of 3 or more credits.
· Standard Level examinations with a score of 4 or higher will receive a minimum of 2 or more credits.
Researching IB Credit Policies
IB students are encouraged to research the IB credit policies for the various schools for which they wish to apply. Common places for such listings are under “Admissions” or “Registrar” tabs. Also, one could simply put “International Baccalaureate Credits” in a school’s search tab. If you cannot find the information, don’t hesitate to contact the admissions’ office; ask for “the individual who best understands how International Baccalaureate credits are recognized.”
Additional Support
Please feel free to contact the Champlin Park IB Coordinator with any questions you may have. We would like to help you with the important component of your college quest. IB Office 763-506-6912
